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Occupational Therapy

A path to gain entry to occupational therapy program.

What do Occupational Therapists do?

Occupational Therapists (OTs) help people across the lifespan participate in meaningful activities (occupations) despite physical, mental, or developmental challenges. They design therapy plans that improve independence, daily living skills, and quality of life.

Some of their responsibilities include:

  • Teaching patients how to perform daily tasks like dressing, eating, and writing

  • Designing adaptive equipment or recommending home modifications

  • Helping children with developmental delays succeed in school and play

  • Supporting individuals recovering from injury, stroke, or surgery

  • Working with older adults to maintain independence and prevent falls

Conditions treated by Occupational Therapists

OTs address a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Developmental disorders (autism, sensory processing disorders)

  • Physical disabilities (cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, amputations)

  • Neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury)

  • Mental health challenges (anxiety, depression, PTSD)

  • Geriatric issues (arthritis, dementia, fall prevention)

Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median salary for Occupational Therapists was $96,370 per year.

Preparation and OT School Applications

Bachelor’s Degree:

  • Required before entering a Master’s (MOT) or Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program.

  • Students often major in Biological Sciences, Psychology, Kinesiology, or related fields at MSU.

GPA:

  • Most OT programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0. A competitive GPA is usually 3.4–3.6 or higher, especially in science and prerequisite coursework.

Observation/Shadowing Hours:

  • OT programs typically require 40–100 hours of observation under licensed occupational therapists, often across multiple settings (pediatric, inpatient rehab, outpatient, etc.).

Entry Exams:

  • The GRE is required by many programs, though some are now test-optional. Always check the requirements of each school.

Involvement/Extracurriculars:

  • Join MSU’s Pre-Occupational Therapy Club and related organizations.

  • Volunteer in hospitals, schools, or community rehab programs.

  • Research or service activities strengthen your application.

Letters of Recommendation:

  • Most programs require 2–3 letters. At least one should come from an occupational therapist, and another from a professor in the sciences.

The Application (OTCAS):

  • The Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service (OTCAS) is used to apply to most OT programs.

  • Applications open in July, more than a year before enrollment.

  • Many schools admit students on a rolling basis, so applying early is recommended.

Application Steps:

  1. Meet with your pre-health advisor to plan a timeline.

  2. Verify prerequisites for each OT program.

  3. Collect letters of recommendation early.

  4. Complete observation/shadowing requirements and keep a signed log.

  5. Take the GRE if required.

  6. Submit transcripts and apply through OTCAS.

  7. Prepare for interviews and continue gaining meaningful healthcare experience.

 

For assistance in planning a pre-OT path at MSU, contact Claire Palmer 

Additional Resources and Information: